Chassis lock washers

[Gary J.]

Is there a source for purchasing lock washers with the orignal "dark" type coating. I'm rebuilding the suspension on my 71 and want to use new lock washers. If not, what is acceptalbe for NCRS Judging?

[Mark S. Lovejoy]

Re: Chassis lock washers

Gary,

McMaster-Carr has 'plain' lockwashers. I'm sure Fastenall could get them for you as well.

Mark

[Terry M.]

Re: Chassis lock washers

I don't know what McMaster supplies for lock washers, but many modern split lock washers have serrations on the outer diameter -- just like US coins. The split lockwashers from 30 and more years ago did not have that feature. Most chassis and engine judges I know will deduct for those serrated lock washers -- do your best to find a source without them. Several years ago I found non-serrated split lock washers in my local ACE hardware store. They are zinc plated, however.

[John D.]

Re: Chassis lock washers

Serrated vs smooth split lock washers. Both were used. On the old fuel injections both styles were used. On my NOS '63 FI unit it has both serrated and smooth lock washers. The old rusty chassis's I have been looking at have both style split lock washers. The serrations in the olden days didn't seem to be as harsh or as deep as the new ones today. Remember when you have these washers cad plated or zinc plated they must be done by a competent plater who has a oven so that they can be baked immediately after plating. Otherwise they snap and break big time. Just my unscientific observation looking at original chassis's and components since I am a washer nut. John D.

[Terry M.]

Re: Chassis lock washers addendum

John,
I guess I should have qualified my observations more. We don't generally see serated split lock washers on early C3s. I'll leave the C2s and other years to the rest of you guys.

[Wayne C.]

Re: Chassis lock washers

Gary, I'm not familiar with your year so I can't speak to judging standards, but if the washer is an ordinary lock washer with a black finish, then look in the phone book for a supplier of fasteners in your area and ask if they carry your size lockwasher in a black phosphate finish. My local fastener supplier carries nuts and lockwashers with that black coating.

[Wayne C.]

Re: Chassis lock washers... addendum

PS, ask about black oxide coating, also.

[Gary J.]

Re: Chassis lock washers... addendum

Thanks. I will make some calls tomorrow.